Physicians and most medical facilities require medical transcription services to produce typed documents and reports dictated by medical professionals regarding patients in their care. These records produced by the professional medical transcription service are used by doctors to review patient records or to submit to insurance companies to show services provided to patients and facilitate payment. Most insurance companies will not compensate the medical professional unless they submit a complete report to show the services they provided to the patient.
Medical Transcription Duties
According to "The Occupational Outlook Handbook 20008-09 Edition" many medical transcription services are run by home-based telecommuters. And, they perform most of their duties in a home office. The basic duties for most home based medical transcription owners include the following:
- Listen to dictated messages by physicians and transcribe.
- Use a computer to prepare and type patient reports.
- Use a computer to prepare patient records for evaluation by doctors.
- Prepare specialized documents to submit to insurance companies for review.
- Prepare specialized documents to process insurance claims.
Medical Transcription Skills
Basic office skills are essential. Here is a list of the minimum specialized skills to enter this field.
- Computer skills
- Word processing skills
- Know general medical terminology
- Familiar with specialized medical terminology
- Courses in medical transcription procedures
- Advanced training in vocational or community college
- Understand basic physiology and anatomy
- Know how to transcribe dictated patient reports
Medical Transcription Equipment
Includes:
- Complete computer setup
- Word processing software
- Medical spelling software
- Medical dictionaries
- Medical transcriber unit
Startup Cost
Startup cost is lower than many other home based professions in this industry. Of course, this varies widely and depends on the equipment already owned. Plus the advertising methods used to attract clients.
Potential Income
This varies according to the region and local competition. Income also varies according to the owners experience. And one most factor in their billing method. Many medical transcription services charge per hour while others charge per line transcribed. This has a great impact on potential income. For example, a fast typist will certainly make more money per hour if they charge per transcribed line than one who types at a slower pace and also charges per transcribed line.
Advertising Methods
Utilize ads in local newspapers, medical journals and ads in yellow pages. Contact former associates in the health care community. Always show the advantages in ads to the health care community that the service provides. And be very upfront about the charges and how they will be billed, so they will be aware of charges and fees. This will stop any disputes that might occur.
Insider Tips
This is a highly specialized field and is very difficult to get started in without medical contacts or experience. Those who have worked in a medical office, clinic, or hospital have a significant edge over others who lack experience. Those considering this field should take this into due consideration before starting a home-based medical transcription service.
Sources:
Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009 Edition
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